A Transport for London spokesperson said: “We have made clear previously that it is our view that smart phones used by private hire drivers do not constitute the equipping of a vehicle with a taxi meter where they act as GPS tracking devices to measure journey distances and relay information so that fares can be calculated remotely from the vehicle.

“However, we acknowledge that this issue is not straightforward and is open to an alternative interpretation. The most appropriate way forward is to invite the High Court to issue a declaration on this issue.

“Whilst there were ongoing criminal proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court, we could not proceed with an application to the High Court. TheMagistrates’ Court has been invited to withdraw those proceedings and TfL will now proceed with its application to the High Court.”